35 Self-care ideas for when you only have 20 minutes (or less!)

As I was looking for ideas on ultra-quick self-care activities to add into my day in between helping Boe with his school work and running the business / home, I realised that there were quite a few ideas that kept popping into my head.

As so many of us are so busy lately, and self-care is slipping down our list of priorities, I’ve popped them all into a helpful list to share with you, especially as we’re all about self-care and self-love at The Lounge this month! All these activities on this list will take 20 minutes or less.

Have a look through this list and add one or two that you’ll enjoy into your day. Even if you think you don’t have time, still add them and see if you can re-jig your other plans to make space.

1, have a cold glass of water with a fresh slice of lemon

2, take 10 deep breaths

3, stretch or do some yoga

4, open the curtains and the window to let sunlight and fresh air in

5, have a short burst of crystal healing or just sit with your favourite stones for a while

6, wash your face

7, apply some body lotion

8, play your favourite songs and sing!

9, text a friend or family member to say hi

10, paint your nails

11, light a candle

12, freshen up your make up

13, do some colouring

14, make a fresh cup of coffee or tea – and drink it!

15, do a brain dump – empty your thoughts and to-do list on a scrap piece or paper (or that pretty notebook you’ve not started using yet)

16, do a quick meditation from a meditation app
17, spend a few minutes unfollowing those who don’t bring sunshine into your life on social media

18, declutter a small area of your room

19, repeat some positive affirmations

20, pop on a face mask (the skin care kind, not the “I’m going out” kind)

21, write in your journal

22, listen to a podcast

23, apply a hair mask

24, write down 3 things you’re grateful for

25, delete unnecessary apps from your phone

26, unsubscribe from emails you don’t want

27, clear out photos or videos from your phone

28, clear out your sock drawer

29, write out 5 future life goals for yourself

30, write a letter to a loved one

31, watch a funny video on youtube

32, do a puzzle

33, put on your favourite outfit

34, have a healthy snack (or indulge in your favourite chocolate)

35, read a few pages of a book

Taking time out for ourselves helps prevent us from burning out and reaching the end of our tether. It’s also vital in keeping our mental health healthy and gives us more space for sunshine moments in our days.

We may currently be stuck at home, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find some joyful moments that makes our soul recharge and stay happy.

I hope this list gives you a few ideas (or reminds you of some activities that you’ve not done for a while) and that you’re able to prioritise some time for yourself.

Stay safe and stay well <3